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For several years, Ms. Franklin, known as La Grande Dame of
the Arts, actively participated in the Día de los Muertos
planning committee. She had a special interest in the ceramic
heritage that infused the region of the Americas and supported
the Quintero Center’s programs that helped individuals discover
and grow their talents. This year’s Día de los Muertos
event will honor Ms. Franklin’s passion for the ceramic and
cultural arts and her interest in helping others grow their own
artistic creativity.
Alberto Flores regularly attended many of the cultural programs
of the Quintero Center, particularly, Aquí se Habla Español,
a program for those interested in practicing Spanish and
learning about the diverse Latino culture. He was a teacher for
37 years at Libbey High School and was one of the founding
members of the Excel Program at the University of Toledo (UT).
According to UT’s website, “The Excel Program is designed to
stimulate academic success, self-confidence, and social and
personal growth in high school students from ethnic and
socioeconomic groups underrepresented in institutions of higher
education.” Toledo’s Día de los Muertos will celebrate
Mr. Flores’ life of inspiring young kids to stay in school and
individuals to be their best and make a difference in the world.
Both, Ms. Franklin and Mr. Flores, shared their enthusiasm for
promoting opportunities to expand artistic and cultural
knowledge through the programs of the Quintero Center. Their
contributions to art and education increased growth
opportunities for many in our community, particularly children,
artists and Latinos.
The Día de los Muertos includes an altar exhibit
displaying the works of community residents and local artists.
Events featuring altars are free and open to the public starting
with a blessing ceremony at 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, November 3,
at the Quintero Center (1225 Broadway, Toledo, Ohio 43609)
followed by a procession to SS Peter & Paul Parish (728 S. St.
Clair St., Toledo, Ohio 43609) for a special mass honoring loved
ones and a pan dulce y chocolate (sweet bread and hot
cocoa) reception. The altars will be exhibited at the
Quintero Center on November 4, 10 and 11 from 1:00 p.m. – 4:00
p.m. and refreshments will be served.
The evening fundraiser on November 3 will be from 6:00 p.m. -
10:00 p.m. at 1 Aurora Gonzalez Drive, Toledo
OH 43609 (off South Avenue near the Anthony Wayne Trail;
location of the Aurora Gonzalez Center and the Believe Center)
where the main altar will be dedicated to the memory of Ms.
Franklin and Mr. Flores.
A traditional Mexican dinner will be served featuring chef José
Carlos Méndez of O.K. Patrón in Perrysburg. Guests will
be entertained by Glass City Mariachi
Band, Corazón de México Ballet Folkórico and the
University of Toledo Latin Jazz Ensemble.
For more information or to purchase tickets, call 419-490-6130.
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